Belgrave Music Hall in Leeds remains a launch pad for rising artists

When Belgrave Music Hall and Canteen opened in 2013, it brought together two things Leeds has always loved: live music and good food. More than a decade on, it remains one of the city centre's best-loved independent venues.

The venue was founded by Simon Stevens and Ash Kollakowski, both well-known figures on the Leeds music scene. Stevens was the music programmer at the former venue The Cockpit, while Kollakowski was working at A Nation of Shopkeepers when the pair decided to combine their love of live music and hospitality.

Their track record as promoters was already impressive. Together they created brands including Constellations, Beacons Festival and The Iron Wagon, and their promotions company Super Friendz looks after the programming at Belgrave.

The building itself has plenty to offer. There are two bars, two kitchens, a music hall with a capacity of around 300 and a roof terrace that is one of the city centre's favourite spots on a sunny afternoon.

Belgrave has earned a reputation as a launch pad for new talent. The Yorkshire Evening Post notes that the music hall has hosted early performances from artists such as Stormzy, Jorja Smith and Yard Act, while more established names have returned for special shows, including a two-night residency from Loyle Carner during the venue's tenth anniversary year in 2023.

Food has always been part of the story too. Belgrave became home to the Belgrave Feast, described as the UK's longest-running street food festival, and its in-house kitchens have included Patty Smiths burgers, Dough Boys pizza and Fu-Schnikens.

The venue continues to play its part in the city's bigger music events. In 2026 Belgrave was named as one of the venues for the Slam Dunk Merrion Street takeover, a night of pop-punk and emo in Leeds city centre alongside The Key Club and Santiago.

Belgrave Music Hall and Canteen is in Leeds city centre, close to Merrion Street. Gig listings and tickets are on the venue's website, and the bars and kitchens are open to drop-in visitors as well as gig-goers.